01Can You Drive in Japan with a Non-Japanese License?
Japan is famous for its efficient public transportation, but many visitors and residents find that driving offers more freedom—especially when exploring rural areas, mountains, or hidden hot springs. If you’re planning to drive in Japan with a license issued outside the country, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements and prepare the right documents. Driving without proper authorization can result in fines, invalid insurance, or worse.
In this guide, we will cover every important detail to ensure you're road-ready, including types of licenses accepted in Japan, how to get an International Driving Permit (IDP), specific rules for drivers from certain countries, required documents, and rental car tips. Whether you're a tourist or a long-term resident, this article is your complete resource.
02What Kind of Driving License Is Valid in Japan?
To legally drive in Japan, your license must fall into one of the following categories. Use the table below to quickly check which applies to you:
| License Type | Who Can Use It | Requirements | Validity in Japan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Driver’s License | Long-term residents in Japan | Issued by a local Japanese licensing office | Valid as long as it remains current |
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | Citizens of countries that signed the 1949 Geneva Convention |
|
1 year from date of landing in Japan |
| Foreign License + Japanese Translation |
Citizens of: • Germany • France • Switzerland • Belgium • Monaco • Taiwan |
|
1 year from date of landing in Japan |
If you're unsure whether your country is a signatory of the 1949 Geneva Convention, check with your local licensing authority or the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).
There are different ways to drive legally in Japan depending on your home country. To help you easily understand what you need to prepare, please check the guide below based on your nationality.
03What Should You Prepare Based on Your Country?
Here’s what you need to do depending on where your driver's license was issued:
| Your Country | What You Need | How Long You Can Drive in Japan |
|---|---|---|
| USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Thailand, Singapore, etc. |
|
1 year from your entry date (not from IDP issue date) |
| Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, Taiwan |
|
1 year from your entry date |
| Other countries (not listed above) |
|
Varies – check eligibility or convert license |
Important: IDPs from unofficial websites or based on the 1968 Vienna Convention are not valid in Japan. Always double-check before your trip.
If you entered Japan through an automated immigration gate, ask an officer for a physical entry stamp. Rental car agencies will need it to confirm your entry date.
04How to Get an IDP or Official Japanese Translation
Once you know what type of license you need, the next step is to actually get the correct document. Here’s how to do it, depending on your situation:
▶ For Most Countries: How to Get an International Driving Permit (IDP)
If your country is part of the 1949 Geneva Convention, you must apply for an IDP in your home country before you travel to Japan. Here's how:
IDPs are usually valid for 1 year from the date of issue, but you can only drive in Japan for 1 year from your arrival date—not the issue date. Always carry your passport with the entry stamp when using it.
▶ For Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, Taiwan: How to Get an Official Japanese Translation
If you are from one of the six eligible countries, you need to bring a Japanese translation of your license along with the original. The translation must be issued by an authorized organization. The easiest and most widely accepted option is the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).
You can apply for a translation through the JAF website. The process is done entirely online:
Translations are only valid when issued by JAF, your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan, or other approved institutions (e.g. Taiwan-Japan Relations Association for Taiwan).
Remember, even with a translation, you still need to carry your original license and passport with a valid immigration entry stamp.
05Renting a Car in Japan with a Valid License
Once you have the proper driving documents, renting a car in Japan is quite easy. Most rental agencies will ask for the following:
- Minimum age: usually 18 (some premium rentals require 20+)
- A valid IDP or accepted foreign license with Japanese translation
- Your passport with entry stamp
- A credit card for deposit and payment
You’ll also be asked to choose insurance coverage. Basic insurance is included, but it’s a good idea to add optional collision damage waivers or personal accident protection for peace of mind.
In Japan, people drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally:
- 50 km/h in cities
- 80–100 km/h on highways
06Discover Japan from Nagoya—Drive in Style with a Premium Rental
Looking to explore more than just the city center? Renting a car from Nagoya opens the door to unforgettable road trips to places like Gifu, Mie, Shiga, Shizuoka, Kyoto, and Nara. From historic temples to mountain villages, there's so much to discover—on your own schedule.
At Konkuni, we offer a premium car rental experience featuring imported models such as Mercedes-Benz and MINI. Our vehicles are ideal for travelers who appreciate both performance and comfort.
- Experience Japan's countryside with a luxury ride
- Take weekend trips with friends or family in style
- Drive confidently with well-maintained, high-end vehicles
We are conveniently located near Kanayama Station in Nagoya, making pick-up easy—even if you’re visiting for the first time. From here, you're just a few hours away from Japan’s most scenic and cultural destinations.
Ready to start your journey? Browse our Premium Rental Car Service and book your dream drive from Nagoya today.
